The Benchmade Knife Company is a knife manufacturer run by Roberta and Les de Asis in Oregon City, Oregon.
Benchmade was started in California in 1988 but didn't set up shop in Clackamas, Oregon until 1990. The bulk of Benchmade's initial output consisted of butterfly or balisong-style knives, which it continues to manufacture.
In 1996 Benchmade moved to Oregon City, Oregon. At this facility Benchmade produces most or all of its line of knives - although some work is farmed out to third party vendors with final inspection or approval done by Benchmade.
Benchmade receives a significant amount of revenue from restricted-sales knives to military (in particular) and law enforcement. Benchmade produces a fairly diverse selection of "full auto" or switchblade knives. Although Benchmade does not loudly mention it, the State of Oregon does not have any restrictions against selling a switchblade-style knife to an Oregon resident. Additionally, one of the reasons Benchmade is located in Oregon - as are many other knife makers - is specifically because Oregon has very relaxed laws towards knives in general and switchblades or butterfly knives specifically.
As of October 2004 the company employs approximately 125-150 people. Benchmade has had several years of growth and has expanded both the variety of knives it produces and the facility itself.
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